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Women's Health

Bump

03/06/2007

Question:

What could cause a bump on the nipple? I am 36 and have a bump slightly off center on my left nipple. It is normal skin color. I don`t know how long it has been there but not more than a few months I think. I just recently noticed it. I am not pregnant and have had one child 17 years ago. Could this be an abscess or something? I have looked at other questions and websites but they all talk about nipple discharge and I have had no nipple discharge. Thank you.

Answer:

There are some normal "bumps" on the nipple that are called Montegomery's Tubercles. They are the openings for glands in the breast that produce a protective coating over the nipple. They are hormonally stimulated and usually arise when a person is pregnant or nursing. After that they usually don't go away. It may be that you are just noticing one. If the "bump" is new and particularly if it is sensitive to the touch or reddened, it's a good idea to have your provider take a look at it, as it could be the beginning of an infection or a small cyst in the breast.

I hope this helps.

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Response by:

The Ohio State University Elizabeth R Barker, APRN, BC, FNP, FAANP, CHE, PhD
Associate Professor
Director, MS Program
College of Nursing
The Ohio State University
Elizabeth R Barker, APRN, BC, FNP, FAANP, CHE, PhD